Beverly Taft's strong suit comes shining through on the up tempo tunes.
She has super intonation and the words are clear no matter how fast the
song may be.
"The Song Is You" is performed at warp speed and the ensemble rides
along in lock step with Taft as she wades through this piece
beautifully, turning it into a boppish gem.
Johnny Mercer's "I'm An Old Cowhand" is given new treatment with Taft
singing the verse and then blazing along in an explosion of
"phraseology" that would make Sonny Rollins sit up and take
notice..Rollins version can be found on Riverside records (I think).
Chris Gale's saxophone solo adds spice to an already potent mix.
"Little Willie Leaps" This tune made be bop history with Charlie
Parker's classic version on the Savoy label. I had never heard this tune
done as a vocal...Beverly Taft sends this one orbit bound as she swings
it hard and fast.
Included in this album are some ballads done with sensitivity and
style...but the main message is creative bop jazz done the old fashioned
way....with class and poise.
FIVE STARS
Contact Beverly by email: hello AT beverlytaft DOT com
